Title: General Manager

Location: Hancock, Michigan

Salary range: $80-90K

The Carlisle Group is pleased to partner with Keweenaw Co-op Market, a long-standing, community-owned grocery cooperative located in Hancock, Michigan. We are seeking a General Manager (GM) to lead store operations and guide the Co-op into its next exciting chapter of growth and impact.

This position represents a unique opportunity to lead a trusted community anchor that has served Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula for over 50 years. With a newer store location, the Co-op is expanding its reach and deepening its mission to provide access to healthy, local, and sustainably produced foods while supporting a resilient regional food system.

Overview

Guided by the Keweenaw Co-op’s mission and reporting to the Board of Directors, the General Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, vision, and management of the Co-op’s operations. The GM will ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the business by upholding cooperative principles, achieving financial goals, fostering a positive workplace culture, and strengthening relationships with member-owners, staff, vendors, and the broader community.

Responsibilities

The GM is responsible for the successful implementation of store operations and programs in alignment with the Co-op’s mission and strategic plan. Primary areas of accountability include:

Financial Accountability & Business Planning

• Lead the development and execution of annual business plans and budgets aligned with the Co-op’s financial and strategic objectives.
• Manage resources responsibly to ensure financial sustainability and profitability.
• Provide timely and accurate financial reporting to the Board of Directors.
• Analyze performance metrics to identify opportunities for operational improvement.

Store Operations

• Oversee all aspects of store operations, including merchandising, inventory, pricing, facilities, and customer service.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, labor laws, and cooperative policies.
• Drive operational excellence and efficiency throughout all departments.

Building and Leading a Team

• Recruit, mentor, and lead a high-performing management team and staff.
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work culture that reflects cooperative values.
• Provide coaching, feedback, and opportunities for professional development.
• Foster a safe, respectful, and engaging work environment for all employees.

Marketing, Membership, and Community Engagement

• Strengthen member-owner relationships through transparency, responsiveness, and engagement.
• Collaborate with marketing and outreach teams to promote the Co-op’s mission, programs, and new store initiatives.
• Actively represent the Co-op in community partnerships and local business networks.

Required Qualifications

• Financial Management & Reporting: Demonstrated experience in business operations with bottom-line accountability, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Retail Grocery or Food Industry Experience: Minimum of 5 years in retail food, grocery, or food distribution management; understanding of industry standards, food safety, and supply chain operations.
• Leadership & Team Management: Proven success in hiring, developing, and leading management-level employees; strong skills in motivation, delegation, and accountability.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and execute long-term strategies that balance mission, financial health, and community needs.
• Operational Excellence: Track record of improving performance and achieving results through process improvement and innovation.
• Community and Member Relations: Strong communication and relationship-building skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Technology Proficiency: Comfortable using POS and financial software; knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and QuickBooks (or similar).
• Commitment to Cooperative Values: Genuine interest in cooperative business models, sustainability, and strengthening local food systems.

Highly Desired Qualifications

• Experience in cooperative management or community-owned retail.
• Experience leading during major transitions or expansions.
• Courageous, transparent, and values-driven leadership style.
• Strong self-awareness and ability to build trust with teams and stakeholders.
• Enthusiasm for living and working in a close-knit, rural community with a rich local culture.

About Keweenaw Co-op Market and Hancock, Michigan

Founded in 1973, Keweenaw Co-op Market has been a cornerstone of the Copper Country community for over five decades. As a community-owned grocery cooperative, the Co-op is dedicated to supporting local producers, advancing environmental sustainability, and improving access to nutritious, affordable food.

Store Basics

• Community-owned cooperative serving Michigan’s Upper Peninsula since 1973
• Over 4,000 member-owners and growing
• New store location with expanded grocery, deli, and café services
• Recognized locally for leadership in sustainability, local sourcing, and community partnerships

About Hancock and the Keweenaw Peninsula

Nestled on the northern shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Hancock is a picturesque and vibrant community surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The area is known for its historic character, outdoor recreation, and strong sense of community. Residents enjoy access to Lake Superior, hiking and biking trails, winter sports, and a thriving arts and culture scene. The region is also home to Michigan Technological University, which contributes to the area’s energy, diversity, and innovation.

All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, sex, marital or parental status, disability, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis prohibited by law.

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